Technology and Connecting with Students
I find it interesting that many students prefer usage of text or e-mail rather than speaking on the telephone. The response is on their time schedule rather than an immediate conversation with me. I hope speaking face-to-face or on the telephone doesn't become obsolete for the next generation (Gen Z)! Do they even sell stationary or envelopes for letters (not the typical paper used in computers)? Handwriting is also evolving into utilizing computers. Probably the reason that hiring managers can't read job applications and request that forms be completed online.
I also prefer to text and email both students (and friends and family as well). In this time-crunched society, it is easier to get and give an an immediate response in this manner. I do notice that my students are very uncomfortable on the phone, especially in an office setting. I think the immediacy of communication has been gotten at the loss of true communication skills. Personal interaction requires eye contact, inflection, tone, body language, etc. None of these are available via text and/or email, and it is a big loss.
Alexandra,
this is a fair point & while we have to make sure they don't intrude, phone calls are more disruptive than texts.
Ryan Meers, Ph.D.
I also prefer to text or email instead of calling on the phone. Some of the reason I feel that way is that I teach both night and day classes, so it is much easier for a student to get a response from me when I can randomly check the message and respond without needing it to be at a specific time.
As a boomer with (I like to think) an open mind I do it all - I write my essays long hand, then I edit them while I type them.
I am also a big texter - I seldom talk on my phone - it is not a phone but an instant messager - I love it!!!
I have found that even in my own life (I'm a Gen Xer), it is becoming more and more awkward for me to write things out. I cant decide if I want to use cursive or print. The problem is I rely on typing so much I am forgetting how to write!
